Butler County's developmental disabilities agency faces a $13.3M deficit by 2026 due to stagnant funding despite rising costs and demand.

The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities declared a fiscal emergency, projecting a $13.3 million deficit by 2026 due to rising costs and stagnant revenue. Despite serving over 4,200 individuals—up from 250 in 2004—the agency’s funding hasn’t increased since 2004, as outdated property tax levies fail to reflect an 110% rise in home values. It has already cut $2.1 million by reducing staff hours, freezing salaries, and leaving positions open. Officials plan to seek a new 1.8- to 2-mill levy in May 2026, which could bring in $24.4 to $26.4 million annually starting in 2027, and expect to lose $250,000 next year due to a county homestead exemption.